Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Sometimes, the simplest recipes make the best meals, and Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the perfect example of this. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, flavorful rice mixture, making it an easy and comforting dinner option. With minimal preparation and ingredients, this recipe is designed to be virtually forgotten in the oven while it cooks. The cream of mushroom and celery soups blend seamlessly with the rice, creating a rich, savory base that pairs wonderfully with the juicy chicken on top. Whether you’re looking for a hassle-free weeknight meal or a comforting dish to serve to family, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Prep Time

With only 5 minutes of prep, this recipe requires little effort and time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a quick dinner.

2. One-Pan Meal

This is a one-pan dish, meaning you can enjoy a delicious, filling meal without the need to clean up multiple pots and pans.

3. Tender Chicken

The chicken breasts cook perfectly on top of the rice, absorbing the savory flavors of the cream soups, resulting in juicy and tender meat every time.

4. Creamy and Flavorful Rice

The rice becomes incredibly creamy as it cooks in the mixture of cream of mushroom and celery soups, creating a rich, comforting base that complements the chicken perfectly.

5. Effortless Cooking

Once everything is assembled and placed in the oven, you don’t need to worry about it—just set it and forget it until the timer goes off.

Ingredients

• Uncooked white rice
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Cream of celery soup
• Dry onion soup mix
• Water
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to the rice mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Change the Soup Base: If you prefer a different flavor, try swapping out the cream of mushroom and cream of celery soups for other varieties, like cream of chicken or cream of potato.
• Spicy Twist: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the rice mixture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you’re done assembling the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice Mixture

In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the uncooked white rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, dry onion soup mix, and water. Stir to combine until all ingredients are well mixed.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Do not stir the chicken into the rice; the chicken will cook on top as the dish bakes.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 45 minutes. The rice will cook in the liquid from the soups, becoming tender and flavorful while the chicken cooks through.

Step 5: Let Stand and Serve

Once the baking time is up, let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the rice to set. Serve the chicken with a generous scoop of the creamy rice mixture.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Check the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are especially large, you may want to check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Use Aluminum Foil: Make sure to cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and prevent the rice from drying out.
• Avoid Stirring: Don’t stir the rice mixture while it bakes. The rice needs to cook undisturbed in the broth for the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this dish as a complete meal with a simple side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. It pairs well with roasted broccoli, green beans, or a side of garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider adding mashed potatoes or a side of corn.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or in a covered baking dish in the oven.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! If you want to make it ahead, freeze the entire casserole before baking. To cook, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then bake according to the recipe instructions.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers in the microwave for a few minutes until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this dish and will add extra juiciness and flavor.

2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can use brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and add a bit more water, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

4. What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or cream of potato soup for a different flavor profile.

5. Can I add vegetables to the rice?

Yes! You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn directly to the rice mixture for more flavor and color.

6. Can I use instant rice instead of uncooked white rice?

Instant rice won’t work as well for this recipe, as it cooks too quickly. Stick with regular uncooked rice for the best results.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

8. Can I use a different onion soup mix?

Yes, you can substitute with any dry onion soup mix you prefer, such as low-sodium or a different brand.

9. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Frozen chicken breasts can be used, but make sure to add extra cooking time (about 15-20 minutes).

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich and satisfying meal with minimal effort. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory flavor, this dish is perfect for busy days or when you want a fuss-free dinner. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder that cooks itself, allowing you to relax and enjoy a delicious meal without the stress of constant attention. Simple, flavorful, and hearty—what’s not to love?

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